How Should Dermatology Clinicians Address Online Myths? With Shannon Trotter, DO

During the Society of Dermatology Physician Associates (SDPA) 2026 Annual Summer Dermatology Conference in Denver, Colorado, HCPLive’s editorial staff spoke in an interview with Shannon Trotter, DO, FAOCD, a board-certified dermatologist and skin cancer specialist with DOCS Dermatology and the Dermatologists of Central States in Ohio.

Trotter had presented a session titled "Mythbusters in Dermatology: Helpful, Harmful, or Hype."¹ In this discussion on-camera with HCPLive, Trotter spoke about increases in dermatologic misinformation, why those seen in practice as patients are increasingly turning to social media for medical advice, and how clinicians can respond.

“There's just so much going on, especially online, about what patients hear about and what they think is truly fact and what we know is probably fiction,” Trotter expressed. “So, they come into the office with already an idea of how they want to be treated or their diagnosis, and I think that that's a good thing that people are more engaged in their health care. But the downside is some of those things could actually be hurtful for the patient.”

Although Trotter did acknowledge that increases in patient engagement in health care is broadly-speaking a positive development, she cautioned against some of the information driving this form of engagement. Trotter noted such misinformation is not only inaccurate but could even be dangerous, given the wide spectrum of myths patients bring into practices.

On the more benign end of misinformation are longstanding folk remedies, Trotter stated, including the belief that applying toothpaste to a pimple will resolve it. In terms of concerning claims, Trotter pointed to the assertion that sunscreen causes skin cancer. This misconception, she stated, is particularly serious given the implications for skin cancer prevention in clinical practice.

Trotter cited a set of 3 converging factors leading to patients’ finding of misinoformation: convenience, entertainment value, and eroding trust in the medical system. She highlighted social media’s accessibility without an appointment, as it allows information in short, engaging formats to exist. In research she referenced, it is sometimes even trusted by some more than their own providers. This is a dynamic Trotter referred to as the most troubling aspect of the current landscape.

Among those seeking to counter misinformation, Trotter urged leading with evidence-based information. She also encouraged taking time to validate patients' views and fears, recognizing what drew them to a particular source or idea regarding treatment. Creating space for such a conversation, she posited, is essential to rebuilding trust and steering those who may have been led astray toward safer, data-supported care.

Trotter reported no financial disclosures of note.

References

1. Trotter S. Mythbusters in Dermatology: Helpful, Harmful, or Hype? Session presented at SDPA Summer 2026; June 10–14.